You may be aware that asbestos, a once-popular building material, has given rise to a huge amount of personal injury litigation. Asbestos is a naturally-occurring mineral that was previously used in construction projects due to its durable and fire-resistant qualities. Asbestos used to be known as the "magic mineral," until it was discovered that exposure to asbestos fibers can significantly increase the occurrence certain types of cancers, including mesothelioma. When asbestos building materials are disturbed during a renovation or demolition project, microscopic fibers can become lodged in the lungs and cause serious illness.
Today, due to its link to mesothelioma and other diseases, use of asbestos is banned completely in more than 50 countries, and its use has been significantly restricted in many others. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency regulates asbestos use, and each state, has also implemented its own regulations. Read on to learn about Mississippi asbestos regulations.
Mississippi Asbestos Regulation Overview
The following chart provides an overview of Mississippi's asbestos regulations.
| Statutes | § Environmental Protection Agency Regulation, 40 CRF sections 61.140 through 61.160 § Mississippi Administrative Code, Part 2, Chapter 1, Rule 1.8 |
| Asbestos Regulatory Agencies | Federal: § U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Mississippi: § Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) |
| Asbestos Removal Regulations | The MDEQ regulates demolition and renovation operations to prevent the release of asbestos fibers into the air. Demolition includes wrecking, removal of load-supporting structures, or intentional burning of a structure. Renovation is defined as the alteration of facility components in any way, including stripping or removal of asbestos-containing materials. Owners and operators of regulated demolition or renovation projects have obligations under Mississippi law to properly inspect work sites, utilize MDEQ certified asbestos inspectors, comply with mandatory asbestos notifications, and follow asbestos control standards and procedures. Exemptions: Individual residences with four or fewer dwelling units are generally exempted from asbestos regulation, unless the renovation or demolition of the residence is part of a commercial development project involving more than one dwelling unit. |
Note: State regulations are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Mississippi Asbestos Regulation: Related Resources
Get Legal Help with Your Mississippi Asbestos Claim
Litigation resolving asbestos-related lawsuits is ongoing. If you believe that you have suffered injuries or illness due to your exposure to asbestos, you may have legal rights to compensation, including medical expenses and pain and suffering. Speak with an experienced personal injury attorney today to learn more about Mississippi asbestos regulations and how they apply to your specific situation.
